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15 Feb, 2024 by Gretchen hyatt
29 Dec, 2023 by Edward walker
Excellent professional service.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Tommie clayton
Best lawyer around .
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie brown
Now I'm going to work on getting rose law firm investigated by the bar for shady dealings and corruption.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Dodi brooke bieber
One of the most professional and concerning staffs I have ever had the experience in their ability to take care of mine and my family’s needs as if they were their own.
They spared no expense in handling my case to the fullest extent. I recommend their firm for their legal services for anyones needs.
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26 Dec, 2023 by Richard clark
17 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie brown
Now I'm going to work on getting rose law firm investigated by the bar for shady dealings and corruption.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Dodi brooke bieber
One of the most professional and concerning staffs I have ever had the experience in their ability to take care of mine and my family’s needs as if they were their own.
They spared no expense in handling my case to the fullest extent. I recommend their firm for their legal services for anyones needs.
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26 Dec, 2023 by Richard clark
11 Aug, 2023 by Lex rising
(Lovely office setting )So far so good …I went in for a consultation with Alex jones and he is such a professional being . He listened and made sure I had an understanding of what was going to happen before we moved forward ..Alisha is lovely at the front desk as well .
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14 Feb, 2023 by Ciara thompson
10 Jun, 2022 by Aliké chambers
Emailed and left a phone call 2 days ago and sadly never got a reply.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Lex rising
(Lovely office setting )So far so good …I went in for a consultation with Alex jones and he is such a professional being . He listened and made sure I had an understanding of what was going to happen before we moved forward ..Alisha is lovely at the front desk as well .
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14 Feb, 2023 by Ciara thompson
10 Jun, 2022 by Aliké chambers
Emailed and left a phone call 2 days ago and sadly never got a reply.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Jimy mamdouh
30 Nov, 2023 by Kristofer stacher
Very professional
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27 Jan, 2023 by Momma kim
love this place, fare and kind
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02 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
I would tell anyone that wanted to use Melinda that she is very knowledgable, and intelligent, but her staff is not organized, they don't get back to you, or follow through with what you ask. For instance, I asked that they PLEASE inform me when my ex husband was served with papers, but noone did, so I looked stupid, not knowing. At the consultation, I gave her 1500 dollars and she didn't start on my case, for 6 + weeks, and it took me calling the office, and telling them I needed a refund, because they wouldn't do anything, they finally did then. My case did not go to court, which Is where I hear she excels, but she did well about knowing what you could ask for and what you couldn't, and being realilistic, which was nice to work with. The rest of it, I cant praise to much.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Sharon bankhead
Feel good times
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12 Jun, 2021 by Joe alton abrams jr., esq.
We tried Mr. Foster to do something very simple on in an estate law issue last year. I called him myself, I am being sworn in as an attorney in another state next month, so I know extensively about estate law. I spoke with him at length to fill him out for a trust that my elderly mother is being supported by until she passes. Mr. Foster on the phone told me many many positive things that he could do for us, so I gave my elderly mother the go ahead to go see him. He abused her and lack of experience and age against her in a way I’ve never seen another attorney do in my entire life. He lied to her so much that we should have reported his dishonest behavior to the Arkansas bar. My dad just passed away and I was in Colorado taking the bar myself. He talked her into signing a billing agreement, which I specifically told him not to do if he could not do the small thing for us. Of course he lied, talked her into signing a billing agreement, and did nothing for us. I am not exaggerating he did not do a single thing we asked him to do. In my opinion he is the most dishonest, underhanded, unethical attorney I have ever come in contact with in my entire life. In my opinion he is a liar, and should never speak to another client, and be disbarred immediately. We asked him to do something that was less than $100 worth of work, and he took over $4000 from my elderly mother. Mr. Foster when you read this I hope you still feel horrible because we both know what you did. You have bad karma which is coming for you my friend. In my opinion you have no integrity and you should be in prison. I’m going to get licensed in Arkansas very soon and I’m going to sue you and your entire firm for what you did to my elderly mother. Just know my friend I’m coming for you, I recorded our conversation on the phone, and I can prove that your billing statements were falsified so that you would be paid an extraordinary amount for five minute calls that you lied about on your billing statements and said they were hours long. I will not stop until you are pumping gas which is the only thing you are able to do in my opinion. That is if karma doesn’t catch up with you before. If anyone reads this, in my opinion go anywhere but this firm. They seem to be the most dishonest firm, and only want to steal from you.
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24 Sep, 2018 by Sion
03 Jun, 2024 by Darksider
Never answers the phone. Don't respond to emails months on end. Don't use this guy find someone who respects your time.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Oneheart king
John is amazing. My speeding ticket was dismissed. I really appreciate his help and effort in my case.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Leon linzy
I’m glad a choose Madden law firm for helping me get on the right path.with chapter 7.I’m great full I will never lose myself again… thank you Madame law firm for everything….
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
Everyone has a horror story about an attorney they've had and for me, this Attorney proved there is no justice in Arkansas. If you have a felony criminal charge and don't have enough money for John Wesley Hall, it's fair to say your screwed!!! Even told us once we didn't have to show up in court when we actually were supposed appear. This resulted in John Anderson advising us to "lay low" for the weekend because we were issued felony warrants that couldn't be recalled until the following Monday!! My husband was incarcerated for 33 months and he was told that he would get out in 18 months. Yes, I avoided jail time for so far but am basically chained to the door with 8 yrs probation time. I was also told they would file a lawsuit after trial but when it came time for that they ignored my calls as long as they could then when I requested my file I was told to sign a paper agreeing that they recused before they would give me my files back.
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
I agree with Kurt! These guys did the same thing to me!! All positive for a year leading up to trial. Paid $12,000.00 and then on the day we were supposed to argue for suppression he got scared I guess so he said it was in our best interest to take a plea bargain because the judge never granted anyone else a suppression and we probably wouldn't be the first. They gave us approx. 10 mins to decide and since he was no longer confident what was I supposed to do? Horrible about returning calls or answering questions they are not seeking justice for victims of crooked police and abuse of power! They won't stand up for you once it goes to trial!! If you have a criminal case- save your money and hire John Wesley Hall instead. 🤬
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22 Nov, 2024 by Scott ward
Great lawyers
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15 Feb, 2024 by Kathleen alvarado
Many violations of both Malicious Prosecution and Brady Violations. If Daniel Haney is the DA against you, take every precaution. I'm quite certain he is part of a fraudulent law enforcement system in Heber Springs Arkansas.
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15 Feb, 2023 by Madam scientist
LETTER OF COMPLAINT:
OF THE
THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY,
DANIEL HANEY
I think Mr. Haney took advantage of the situation, in that, I was representing myself. For instance, I turned over my entire defense presentation, to Mr. Haney, who I met on the phone 5 days, before my trial. When he called me, he seemed quite nice. I remember, he apologized to me “three times,” for having just, received my case. Also, he said, that he was, "very sorry," he “could not, dismiss my case"… "Because, it's just too late, to dismiss it. Being only days before my trial. It's just, Not Possible,” he told me, for him to dismiss my case, that soon, before my trial.
I thought it was odd, for a D.A. to apologize, to me. But I took it, as a hopeful sign. Not that he would be a pushover; Just that I would have a fair trial. I assured him, that "It’s alright! I don’t want you to dismiss it. I'm looking forward to going to trial. All I really want, is an opportunity to speak my defense. And that is more important to me, than winning or losing. I've wanted to speak my case, from the very beginning, since, no law enforcement person, had yet, allowed me to do so."
Mr. Haney, congratulated me. And he encouraged me, heartily, for defending myself. He said, he encourages everyone to defend themselves, if they feel like, they have something to say, about their situation.
I felt relieved and greatly encouraged, that this “kind man,” would be my D.A.!
Now, I’ll just make a few points about my trial…
1. I sent Mr. Haney, all my defense presentation/discovery, as quickly, as I could complete my documentation. I also, sent him, my three part video…
Including….
a. Evidence of “Police Tampering.” On an unplayable,” DVD, that I had “finally,” received, from the Heber Springs Police Department, after 5 months of requesting it. It was “alledgedly,” the Body Cam Video, from my arrest.
b. Self videos…taken before my arrest, demonstrating my intentions of staying safe and my conscientiousness as a safe driver.
c. My testimony, as I felt it needed to presented.
2. I didn’t receive any discovery, from Mr. Haney, before my trial. However, 4 day afterwards, I noticed that he did email me, the body cam footage, that I had yet to obtain, myself.
It was sent to him by Samantha Tharp, the Chief of Police’s Secretary. So Mr. Haney, emailed me the 3 video files, the day before my trial.
But only "One Day," to receive something like this….that could make or break my case…was far too short of notice, for me, or for anyone. Had I received it sooner…it would have broadened my defense, considerably. The Body Cam Evidence was "Highly Edited"…And it was 100% edited, in the officer’s favor.
3. So, the District Attorney, received it, from the Chief of Police’s secretary, Samantha Tharp. The 3 video files, that have her name on each. Along with the information, that they were "last modified,” right before my trial.
It's impossible to summarize, all the editing done, to this footage. It was a huge undertaking, by more than one officer. It is 100% against me, and of course, all in the officer’s best interests. It was “fairly,” evident, that this “edited version,” was done.. After…the arresting officer, had seen my defense video, that I made for court. Because great care was taken, to erase everything, that I “correctly,” said in my testimony. The "Editors," created, a video, that made me appear stupid, and guilty, of being high. It’s almost, entirely faked in many ways.
And this was "allowed," to be played in court. Without the judge allowing, my own, defense video, to be played. So, the police tampered video, was the D.A.'s main offense in his prosecution. This highly offensive and faked discovery of body cam evidence.
If the body worn camera video footage, was unedited, it would have proved everything, I said, in my video defense
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06 May, 2015 by Vance
Daniel helped us through two cases, one involving a district court and the other against Human Services. In the negotiation during a criminal trial he negotiated that I be prosecuted under an Act where I don't plead guilty and the charges dismissed upon completion of my probation instead of having a record for the rest of my life. The strategy worked to get charges that were pending from DHS dismissed. He is a thorough attorney, and I am thankful he took our case.
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
Everyone has a horror story about an attorney they've had and for me, this Attorney proved there is no justice in Arkansas. If you have a felony criminal charge and don't have enough money for John Wesley Hall, it's fair to say your screwed!!! Even told us once we didn't have to show up in court when we actually were supposed appear. This resulted in John Anderson advising us to "lay low" for the weekend because we were issued felony warrants that couldn't be recalled until the following Monday!! My husband was incarcerated for 33 months and he was told that he would get out in 18 months. Yes, I avoided jail time for so far but am basically chained to the door with 8 yrs probation time. I was also told they would file a lawsuit after trial but when it came time for that they ignored my calls as long as they could then when I requested my file I was told to sign a paper agreeing that they recused before they would give me my files back.
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
I agree with Kurt! These guys did the same thing to me!! All positive for a year leading up to trial. Paid $12,000.00 and then on the day we were supposed to argue for suppression he got scared I guess so he said it was in our best interest to take a plea bargain because the judge never granted anyone else a suppression and we probably wouldn't be the first. They gave us approx. 10 mins to decide and since he was no longer confident what was I supposed to do? Horrible about returning calls or answering questions they are not seeking justice for victims of crooked police and abuse of power! They won't stand up for you once it goes to trial!! If you have a criminal case- save your money and hire John Wesley Hall instead. 🤬
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22 Nov, 2024 by Scott ward
Great lawyers
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10 Oct, 2023 by E morel
Mary Carole Young behaved extremely unprofessional to my elderly parents once she saw we were African American was prejudice and disrespectful therefore we do not recommend her
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20 Nov, 2018 by Frank bailey
Bruce Munson is a hard hitting defense lawyer. Bruce always keeps his client informed about their case. Bruce has the ability to turn lemons into lemonade. I would not hesitate to have Bruce defend me in any situation.
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24 Mar, 2018 by Abigail brenneman
Hard working, ethical, and efficient firm
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10 Oct, 2023 by E morel
Mary Carole Young behaved extremely unprofessional to my elderly parents once she saw we were African American was prejudice and disrespectful therefore we do not recommend her
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20 Nov, 2018 by Frank bailey
Bruce Munson is a hard hitting defense lawyer. Bruce always keeps his client informed about their case. Bruce has the ability to turn lemons into lemonade. I would not hesitate to have Bruce defend me in any situation.
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24 Mar, 2018 by Abigail brenneman
Hard working, ethical, and efficient firm
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13 Jan, 2025 by Madeline garris
My Mom died in a nursing facility where she was neglected. I contacted this office and gave them proof from a nurse at the facility. They never did anything and did not contact me. Later I called them, they told me my Mom died from liver disease which was a lie. I felt hurt and disappointed. I'll always have bitterness against this law office.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Dami dayz
I had my case handed over to Casey Or Kasey Green whom I've spoken to twice. Only to tell me my case was settled for a $1000.00. $400 was N gift cards from the company. She settled my case without even talking to Me about it. Cash settlement $600.00. I got $198.00 N'd $400.00 N gift cards. After reading what the company letter to Me the $400.00 N gift cards was a Courtesy, for being a Valued Customer. It was not apart of the settlement. If I could give a ZERO STAR I WOULD. Make it Make Sense.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Joy greer
My brother was hurt really bad because someone ran the stop sign, it's been almost 6 months they got their money he hasn't got a dime
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20 Jul, 2023 by Jim
Sloppy, names misspelled, a ton of grammatical errors in documents a letters
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10 Jul, 2013 by Richard
It is easy for me to recommend Brad Walker as a top notch attorney. I was involved in a lawsuit in Federal Court concerning a real estate issue. The process was lengthy and required a great deal of document review, legal knowledge, and diligence. At every point during the process I found Brad to be resourceful and prepared. His wise counsel allowed me to stay confident and informed through a legal process that was unfamiliar to me.
At trial the immense volume of reference documents were quickly and deftly handled by his team. His use of computers and exhibits were enhanced by a technological approach that was clear and compelling to me and the jury. I found him to be tireless in his preparation and alert to the shifting issues that arose throughout the case. Always prepared to see it through to the final moments, he backed the opposition into a spot that swayed settlement negotiations strongly in my favor.
A true gentleman and a brilliant mind are hallmarks of this man who succeeded in steering me and my company successfully through a very trying time. I would not hesitate to recommend him strongly in any legal matter and can relax with confidence in his judgment.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
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09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
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09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
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09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
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09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
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09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
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09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
Everyone has a horror story about an attorney they've had and for me, this Attorney proved there is no justice in Arkansas. If you have a felony criminal charge and don't have enough money for John Wesley Hall, it's fair to say your screwed!!! Even told us once we didn't have to show up in court when we actually were supposed appear. This resulted in John Anderson advising us to "lay low" for the weekend because we were issued felony warrants that couldn't be recalled until the following Monday!! My husband was incarcerated for 33 months and he was told that he would get out in 18 months. Yes, I avoided jail time for so far but am basically chained to the door with 8 yrs probation time. I was also told they would file a lawsuit after trial but when it came time for that they ignored my calls as long as they could then when I requested my file I was told to sign a paper agreeing that they recused before they would give me my files back.
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
I agree with Kurt! These guys did the same thing to me!! All positive for a year leading up to trial. Paid $12,000.00 and then on the day we were supposed to argue for suppression he got scared I guess so he said it was in our best interest to take a plea bargain because the judge never granted anyone else a suppression and we probably wouldn't be the first. They gave us approx. 10 mins to decide and since he was no longer confident what was I supposed to do? Horrible about returning calls or answering questions they are not seeking justice for victims of crooked police and abuse of power! They won't stand up for you once it goes to trial!! If you have a criminal case- save your money and hire John Wesley Hall instead. 🤬
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Scott ward
Great lawyers
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
Everyone has a horror story about an attorney they've had and for me, this Attorney proved there is no justice in Arkansas. If you have a felony criminal charge and don't have enough money for John Wesley Hall, it's fair to say your screwed!!! Even told us once we didn't have to show up in court when we actually were supposed appear. This resulted in John Anderson advising us to "lay low" for the weekend because we were issued felony warrants that couldn't be recalled until the following Monday!! My husband was incarcerated for 33 months and he was told that he would get out in 18 months. Yes, I avoided jail time for so far but am basically chained to the door with 8 yrs probation time. I was also told they would file a lawsuit after trial but when it came time for that they ignored my calls as long as they could then when I requested my file I was told to sign a paper agreeing that they recused before they would give me my files back.
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
I agree with Kurt! These guys did the same thing to me!! All positive for a year leading up to trial. Paid $12,000.00 and then on the day we were supposed to argue for suppression he got scared I guess so he said it was in our best interest to take a plea bargain because the judge never granted anyone else a suppression and we probably wouldn't be the first. They gave us approx. 10 mins to decide and since he was no longer confident what was I supposed to do? Horrible about returning calls or answering questions they are not seeking justice for victims of crooked police and abuse of power! They won't stand up for you once it goes to trial!! If you have a criminal case- save your money and hire John Wesley Hall instead. 🤬
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Scott ward
Great lawyers
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
Everyone has a horror story about an attorney they've had and for me, this Attorney proved there is no justice in Arkansas. If you have a felony criminal charge and don't have enough money for John Wesley Hall, it's fair to say your screwed!!! Even told us once we didn't have to show up in court when we actually were supposed appear. This resulted in John Anderson advising us to "lay low" for the weekend because we were issued felony warrants that couldn't be recalled until the following Monday!! My husband was incarcerated for 33 months and he was told that he would get out in 18 months. Yes, I avoided jail time for so far but am basically chained to the door with 8 yrs probation time. I was also told they would file a lawsuit after trial but when it came time for that they ignored my calls as long as they could then when I requested my file I was told to sign a paper agreeing that they recused before they would give me my files back.
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
I agree with Kurt! These guys did the same thing to me!! All positive for a year leading up to trial. Paid $12,000.00 and then on the day we were supposed to argue for suppression he got scared I guess so he said it was in our best interest to take a plea bargain because the judge never granted anyone else a suppression and we probably wouldn't be the first. They gave us approx. 10 mins to decide and since he was no longer confident what was I supposed to do? Horrible about returning calls or answering questions they are not seeking justice for victims of crooked police and abuse of power! They won't stand up for you once it goes to trial!! If you have a criminal case- save your money and hire John Wesley Hall instead. 🤬
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Scott ward
Great lawyers
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by April b
Everyone has a horror story about an attorney they've had and for me, this Attorney proved there is no justice in Arkansas. If you have a felony criminal charge and don't have enough money for John Wesley Hall, it's fair to say your screwed!!! Even told us once we didn't have to show up in court when we actually were supposed appear. This resulted in John Anderson advising us to "lay low" for the weekend because we were issued felony warrants that couldn't be recalled until the following Monday!! My husband was incarcerated for 33 months and he was told that he would get out in 18 months. Yes, I avoided jail time for so far but am basically chained to the door with 8 yrs probation time. I was also told they would file a lawsuit after trial but when it came time for that they ignored my calls as long as they could then when I requested my file I was told to sign a paper agreeing that they recused before they would give me my files back.
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03 Dec, 2024 by April b
I agree with Kurt! These guys did the same thing to me!! All positive for a year leading up to trial. Paid $12,000.00 and then on the day we were supposed to argue for suppression he got scared I guess so he said it was in our best interest to take a plea bargain because the judge never granted anyone else a suppression and we probably wouldn't be the first. They gave us approx. 10 mins to decide and since he was no longer confident what was I supposed to do? Horrible about returning calls or answering questions they are not seeking justice for victims of crooked police and abuse of power! They won't stand up for you once it goes to trial!! If you have a criminal case- save your money and hire John Wesley Hall instead. 🤬
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Scott ward
Great lawyers
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23 Jun, 2024 by Agus gumilar
21 Mar, 2024 by David tate
Not bad not good
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Linda yarbrough
Called and emailed but no return call. Have left many voicemails.
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27 Apr, 2019 by Natasha
Erika was extremely nice however just not good at communication and keeping in touch. I hired her to be licensed with the Arkansas board of nursing as I had a complication on my background from 1994. I was never able to get licensed with the Arkansas board of nursing. We we're supposed to take several steps to get me licensed which never occurred. They were supposed to submit to the Attorney generals office for a formal opinion, that never happened. Sometimes she wouldnt return my calls or emails for more than two months at a time. I would not recommend her for representation, if you want someone who communicates well with you, this is not your attorney.
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15 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Have been paying rent for 9 mos on apt in Hillcrest owned by Foster. Two words describe this "man": Dirtbag and Slumlord. The place is a "dump". Broken Windows, water seeping up from foundation, black mold, ceiling about to fall in. Mr Foster cares only about collecting rent. He owns 26 dwellings and each is worse than the last one. I don't know how the "man" can sleep at night .. Probably on a mattress stuffed with $$$.
Whatever you do don't rent from this man. Repairs won't be made and he refuse to cooperate.
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What a Business Lawyer Can Do for You
A business lawyer provides critical legal guidance and support to entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses. Whether you are forming a new company, drafting contracts, or navigating complex regulations, a business attorney ensures you are legally protected and operating within the law. They can also help prevent legal disputes or represent you in negotiations, transactions, or lawsuits that arise during the course of business operations.
Business lawyers have expertise in areas such as business formation, contract law, intellectual property, employment law, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. They ensure that your business is compliant with relevant laws and help mitigate risks that could threaten your company's success.
When Should I Hire a Business Lawyer?
Hiring a business lawyer is essential at various stages of business development, including:
- Forming a business: When deciding on the best structure for your company (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.), a lawyer can guide you through the registration and compliance process.
- Drafting contracts: If you need contracts for employees, partners, suppliers, or clients, a lawyer ensures these documents are legally sound and in your best interest.
- Mergers, acquisitions, or dissolutions: If you are buying, selling, or dissolving a company, legal counsel is critical to avoid costly mistakes.
- Compliance and regulatory issues: A lawyer can help navigate complex regulations, particularly in industries like healthcare, finance, or tech.
- Resolving disputes: Whether it's contract disagreements, intellectual property infringement, or employment issues, a business lawyer helps mediate, negotiate, or litigate on your behalf.
What Does a Business Lawyer Do?
Business lawyers provide a wide range of services that cater to different legal needs of a business. They can:
- Help you choose the best legal structure for your business.
- Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with employees, suppliers, customers, or business partners.
- Ensure regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
- Advise on tax strategies to minimize your business's tax burden.
- Assist with intellectual property protection, such as trademarks, patents, and copyrights.
- Handle mergers, acquisitions, and business sales, ensuring all legal paperwork is in order.
- Resolve disputes through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation.
How Are Business Lawyers Paid?
Business lawyers typically charge either by the hour or on a flat-fee basis, depending on the complexity of the work. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rates: The lawyer charges based on the time spent working on your case. Rates vary depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
- Flat fees: For certain tasks, such as incorporating a business or drafting a standard contract, a lawyer may offer a flat fee.
- Retainer: Some businesses may hire a lawyer on retainer, paying a fixed amount each month to have ongoing access to legal services.
The payment structure is often discussed during an initial consultation so you can choose the one that best suits your business needs and budget.
How Much Does a Business Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a business lawyer depends on factors such as:
- The complexity of the legal issue: More complex matters, like mergers or intellectual property disputes, typically cost more than routine tasks like contract drafting.
- The lawyer's experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in larger cities often charge higher fees.
- The nature of the billing arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $150 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer's expertise. Flat fees are usually available for simpler matters like forming an LLC or drafting a standard contract.
It's essential to discuss fee structures upfront to avoid surprises.
Top Questions to Ask a Business Lawyer
Before hiring a business lawyer, ask the following questions during your consultation:
-
What is your experience with businesses like mine?
Find out if the lawyer has handled legal issues for companies in your industry. -
What services do you offer?
Ensure the lawyer can meet all your business's legal needs, from contract drafting to dispute resolution. -
What are your fees, and how do you bill?
Get clarity on how you'll be charged - whether by the hour, flat fee, or retainer. -
How do you handle conflicts of interest?
Ask how the lawyer ensures there is no conflict in representing your business. -
Can you provide references from other business clients?
Speaking with past clients will give you an idea of the lawyer's expertise and professionalism. -
Do you have experience in my specific industry?
Industry-specific knowledge can be crucial, especially in highly regulated fields like healthcare or finance.
How to Check the Credibility of a Business Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable business lawyer:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is in good standing and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for client reviews or testimonials: Online reviews, testimonials, or word of mouth from other business owners can provide insight into the lawyer's reliability and effectiveness.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have satisfied clients who can vouch for their services.
- Check professional memberships: Membership in respected legal organizations (such as the American Bar Association or a local business lawyer association) can signal credibility.
- Review their website and professional profile: A well-established lawyer typically has a professional website showcasing their areas of expertise, credentials, and case success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a business lawyer, prepare the following:
- A description of your business and its structure: This will help the lawyer understand your legal needs.
- Any current contracts or agreements: If you're seeking contract advice, bring copies of existing contracts.
- A list of legal issues or concerns: Be ready to discuss any potential legal challenges, such as regulatory compliance, disputes, or transactions.
- Financial documents: If applicable, bring financial records related to the legal matter you're seeking help with.
- Questions about fees and billing: Ensure you understand the lawyer’s payment structure and fees upfront.
By preparing these materials, you can ensure that your first meeting with a business lawyer is productive and informative.
